Featuring: Kristie Pretti-Frontczak, Ph.D., B2K Solutions. Dr. Kristie Pretti-Frontczak finds simple solutions to complex problems such as how to conduct authentic assessments in an age of accountability, how to teach with intention during play, and how to support children in the "messy middle" (i.e., when children are struggling). Kristie spent 16 years, as faculty, at Kent State University and now trains and coaches early educators worldwide through her company, B2K Solutions℠, Ltd. Kristie is a Past President of the Division for Early Childhood.

During the morning session, we will explore three remedies for promoting social-emotional health and well-being. The first remedy centers on strengthening the EQ of caregivers, strategies for modeling “soft skills”, and ways to promote child-to-child interactions. The second remedy centers on integrating the left and right brain, integrating the upstairs and downstairs brain, and integrating self with others. The third remedy centers on how to personalize interventions and practices to focus on compassion versus compliance. In particular, we will explore the correlates between social-emotional learning as educational outcomes, and overall well-being for both children and adults. The morning session will also include opportunities for contemplative reflection and small group discussions.

During the afternoon session, participants will work in small teams to increase their competence and confidence in coaching and training others to implement DEC recommended practices, which are directly related to the remedies explored during the morning session. The overarching goal of the afternoon session will provide participants with opportunities to refine training and support materials. These materials can then be used to support Early On and to intentionally teach/coach/promote SEL in infants and toddlers.

Also featuring: The 2015 Early On® Center Faculty Grant Award recipient, Claire Vallotton, Ph.D., Human Development and Family Studies, Michigan State University.

Dr. Vallotton and Tamesha Harewood, PhD, Postdoctoral Researcher, Human Development & Family Studies, Michigan State University will present:

What do our students know, value, and believe about working with infants and toddlers with special needs and their families?

This event is offered for ASHA CEUs, SCECHs, and Social Work CEUs pending approval.

Speaker Information:

Kristie Pretti-Frontczak, Ph.D., B2K Solutions

Financial Disclosure: Dr. Pretti-Frontczak is the owner of B2K Solutions℠, a company for training and coaching early educators; as owner of B2K she owns the intellectual rights to the presentation. She also is an author for Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company and receives royalty payments. She received a speaking fee from the Early On® Center for this presentation.

Non-Financial Disclosure: She is a member of and a Past President of the Division for Early Childhood.

Claire Vallotton, Ph.D., Associate Professor Human Development & Family Studies, Michigan State University

Financial Disclosure:Dr. Vallotton was awarded a grant by the Early On Center for Higher Education and she received a speaking fee from Early On® Center for her presentation.